The Indian Competition Authority initiates probe into a Big Tech firm for potential abuse of dominance in the app store market (Apple / Together We Fight Society)

KEY POINTS Unlike traditional ‘single-brand’ markets or aftermarkets, the present digital ecosystems including app stores operate as a platform connecting two or multiple different sets of market participants, such as, app developers and users. The multisided nature of this market needs to be recognized to address the intricacies, complexities and interdependencies of such markets. Therefore, criticality of app stores in smart device digital ecosystems requires nuanced approach to market definition. BRIEF FACTS The present Information has been filed by Together We Fight Society (“Society/Informant”), a non-government organization against Apple Inc. (“OP-1”) and Apple Distribution International Ltd. (“ADI/OP-2”) (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Apple”). Apple is engaged in